Crispy Octopus

Feat: Crispy Octopus
Location: Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas
Address: 1002 Old Country Road
Garden City, NY 11530

AMBIANCE:
One of my most favorite type of restaurants is what I like to fondly refer to as “upscale casual”, and this restaurant fits the bill. You have the beautiful backdrop of wine cellars/bottles, and can ultimately choose between booths (that are perfectly oversized), or tables to feel a bit more in the midst of the action. Tapas and wine-centric restaurants can sometimes very easily feel hoity-toity to the average meal-seeker, but Spuntino manages to avoid that snooty feel without sacrificing ambiance. It’s a perfect date spot, yet simultaneously a perfect-for-groups spot as well.

SERVICE:
Now, I have been to Spuntino several times, and can honestly say I have never been let down service-wise. The waitstaff are just the right amount of attentive, even during their busier hours. They always ask whether or not it is anyone’s first time to the restaurant, and if there is someone who has not dined there before, they do not hesitate to explain how their menu works.

FOOD:
Now, the key here is to understand that this is a tapas restaurant. The plates are small, but also meant to be shared. So it’s perfect for people like me who like to taste a little bit of everything. If you’re not into sharing or small plates, then this restaurant (or any tapas place for that matter) is not for you. I can’t say I have tried everything on the menu (I really am trying though), but I can say that I’ve worked my way through at least half of it, and have never been disappointed yet. Also, important to note, I have discovered quite a few new wines here that have quickly become some of my all-time favorites. And if wine isn’t your thing (it totally should be if it’s not though because wine makes everything better, but this is a judgement free zone), they have quirky cocktails that will suit pretty much any taste palette.

MENU RECS:
- Crispy Octopus
- Truffled Artichoke Hearts
- Funghi Risotto
- Mixed Grill

NOTES:
There is ample parking as it is located in The Gallery @ Westbury Plaza. Strongly recommend making reservations - this place is popular!